The sports ministry formally extended its support Friday to the eight-city franchise-based Pro Kabaddi League to start in Mumbai July 26.
"It is indeed very heartening to know that Mashal Sports has taken such a bold, pioneering step in re-focusing the attention of the nation towards what is our own national heritage sport," sports ministry secretary Ajit M. Sharan wrote in a letter to Mashal Sports managing director Charu Sharma, who is the brains behind the league.
"Considering its zero equipment nature and development of stamina, strength, skill, strategy and team work, kabaddi could once again drive the youth of India towards a fitter lifestyle."
The league will be telecast live on Star Sports.